Amsterdam, the largest city in the Netherlands, has long been known as a haven for those seeking a unique and liberating experience. One aspect that sets this city apart is its famous coffeeshops – establishments where the sale and consumption of cannabis is tolerated by local authorities. These coffeeshops have become an integral part of Amsterdam’s culture and attract visitors from all over the globe.
The Rise of Coffeeshops
The concept of coffeeshops emerged in the 1970s with the primary goal of separating the soft and hard drug markets. The Dutch government recognized that by allowing the sale of cannabis in a controlled environment, they could minimize the exposure of cannabis users to more dangerous substances. This progressive approach to drug policy has made Amsterdam a trailblazer in the global discussion surrounding cannabis legalization.
What to Expect in a Coffeeshop
When you step into a coffeeshop in Amsterdam, you’ll find yourself in a laid-back atmosphere where you can purchase and consume cannabis products. These establishments typically offer a variety of strains, both in the form of marijuana and hashish. Many coffeeshops also serve food and non-alcoholic beverages, creating a comfortable space to relax and socialize.
It’s important to note that while coffeeshops are allowed to sell cannabis, they are prohibited from selling alcohol or other drugs. Plus, they must adhere to strict regulations, such as not selling to minors and limiting the amount of cannabis sold to each customer.
Exploring Amsterdam’s Coffeeshops
With 105 out of the city’s 443 municipalities having at least one coffeeshop, you’ll have no trouble finding a spot to indulge in Amsterdam’s cannabis culture. Some of the most popular areas to find coffeeshops include:
- De Pijp
- Leidseplein
- Nieuwe Zijds
- Jordaan
- Rembrandtplein
- The Red Light District
Each coffeeshop has its own unique vibe and menu, so it’s worth exploring a few to find the one that suits your preferences. Some coffeeshops are known for their extensive selection of strains, while others pride themselves on their cozy atmosphere and friendly staff.
Tips for First-Time Visitors
If you’re new to the world of coffeeshops, there are a few things to keep in mind:
- Start slow: If you’re not an experienced cannabis user, it’s best to begin with a mild strain and take it easy.
- Familiarize yourself with the menu: Don’t hesitate to ask the staff for recommendations based on your preferences and tolerance level.
- Be respectful: Remember that coffeeshops are shared spaces, so be mindful of your fellow patrons and the hotel’s rules.
- Enjoy the experience: Amsterdam’s coffeeshops offer a unique opportunity to learn about a different culture and connect with people from all walks of life.
Notable Coffeeshops in Amsterdam
With so many coffeeshops to choose from, it can be overwhelming to decide where to start. Here are a few notable establishments worth checking out:
Green House
Winner of numerous Cannabis Cup awards, Green House is renowned for its top-quality products and inviting atmosphere across its four Amsterdam locations.
Barney’s
Barney’s is a popular chain of coffeeshops that has earned a reputation for its award-winning strains and futuristic decor.
Grey Area
Famous worldwide as the original home of several legendary strains, Grey Area is a must-visit for any cannabis enthusiast.
Dampkring
Featured in the film “Ocean’s Twelve,” Dampkring boasts a cozy atmosphere and an excellent selection of cannabis products.
110 Of Amsterdam’s Top Coffeeshops
First Aid Coffeeshop (1e Hulp)
Address: Marnixstraat 194, Amsterdam Widely regarded as one of Amsterdam’s premier establishments, First Aid Coffeeshop is run by two friends who prioritize superior products and attentive customer service.
Coffeeshop 137
Address: Brouwersgracht 137, Amsterdam Make sure to visit this charming spot on Brouwersgracht during your Amsterdam adventure for an essential cultural experience.
Coffeeshop 36
Address: Warmoesstraat 36, Amsterdam Swing by Coffeeshop 36 on Warmoesstraat for a memorable stop on your Amsterdam itinerary.
Abraxas Coffeeshop
Address: Jonge Roelensteeg 12, Amsterdam Long considered one of the city’s finest, Abraxas Coffeeshop is situated on Jonge Roelensteeg, a quaint alley connecting major thoroughfares.
African Black Star Coffeeshop
Address: Rozengracht 1-A, Amsterdam Offering quality weed, hash, and space cakes at reasonable prices, this two-story shop is a great spot to explore various cannabis options.
Amnesia Coffeeshop
Address: Herengracht 133, Amsterdam Part of an award-winning chain, Amnesia Coffeeshop is a must-visit for any cannabis connoisseur due to its many Cannabis Cup accolades.
Babylon Coffeeshop
Address: Beursstraat 27, Amsterdam A visit to Babylon Coffeeshop is an essential part of any Amsterdam trip for those seeking a unique cultural experience.
Bagheera Coffeeshop
Address: Kloveniersburgwal 60, Amsterdam Though a fairly standard coffeeshop, Bagheera’s friendly staff ensure you’ll find exactly what you’re looking for.
Balou Coffeeshop
Address: Halvemaansteeg 5, Amsterdam Centrally located in the heart of Amsterdam, Balou Coffeeshop welcomes all types of patrons to enjoy the full coffeeshop experience.
Barney’s Lounge Coffeeshop
Address: Reguliersgracht 27, Amsterdam The perfect place to unwind during a day of sightseeing or shopping, Barney’s Lounge offers a tranquil escape in a picturesque setting.
Barney’s Coffeeshop
Address: Haarlemmerstraat 102, Amsterdam Renowned for its multiple “High Times Cup” wins, Barney’s Coffeeshop boasts an innovative, futuristic atmosphere.
Barraka Coffeeshop
Address: Gravenstraat 9, Amsterdam A stop at Barraka Coffeeshop is a crucial component of any cultural exploration of Amsterdam.
Basjoe Coffeeshop
Address: Kloveniersburgwal 62, Amsterdam Known for its exceptional service, Basjoe takes a unique approach to customer care compared to other coffeeshops.
Best Friends II Coffeeshop
Address: Huidenstraat 13, Amsterdam This cozy, relaxing coffeeshop offers a welcome respite from Amsterdam’s lively streets, complete with a surprisingly extensive weed menu.
Betty Too Coffeeshop
Address: Reguliersdwarsstraat 29, Amsterdam Boasting an intimate atmosphere and fine selection of teas, refreshments, weed, and hashish, Betty Too Coffeeshop is well worth a visit for its unique ambiance and great conversation.
Bluebird Coffeeshop
Address: Sint Antoniesbreestraat 71, Amsterdam With a relaxed vibe, fitting music, and delicious smoothies, Bluebird Coffeeshop offers an extensive selection of top-notch weed and hash.
Blues Brothers Coffeeshop
Address: Nieuwendijk 89, Amsterdam Featuring friendly staff, quality weed at reasonable prices, ample seating across two floors, and a pool table, Blues Brothers Coffeeshop is an excellent spot to unwind with an impressive marijuana menu.
Boerejongens Coffeeshop – Center
Address: Utrechtsestraat 21, Amsterdam The sister shop to Boerejongens Coffeeshop West, this centrally located hotel offers exceptional products and service, with a curated selection of high-quality options.
Bronx Coffeeshop
Address: Marnixstraat 92, Amsterdam Situated in a tranquil area west of the city center, Bronx Coffeeshop provides a relaxed, laid-back atmosphere.
Central Coffeeshop
Address: Prins Hendrikkade 89, Amsterdam As one of the first spots you’ll likely encounter after exiting Central Station, this legendary coffeeshop is steeped in tradition.
City Hall Coffeeshop
Address: Oudezijds Voorburgwal 189, Amsterdam A visit to City Hall Coffeeshop is a must for anyone seeking an enriching cultural experience during their Amsterdam getaway.
Crush Coffeeshop
Address: Marnixstraat 383, Amsterdam Located in a basement just off the bustling Leidseplein, Crush Coffeeshop offers a pleasant atmosphere, friendly service, and a diverse range of hash and weed options.
Dampkring Coffeeshop (Handboogstraat)
Address: Handboogstraat 29, Amsterdam A local favorite, Dampkring Coffeeshop attracts a regular crowd with its welcoming staff and willingness to assist patrons with any questions they may have.
Dampkring Coffeeshop 2 (Haarlemmerstraat)
Address: Haarlemmerstraat 44, Amsterdam Experience the same cozy atmosphere as the original Dampkring at this new location on Haarlemmerstraat, conveniently close to Amsterdam Central Station.
De Kroon Coffeeshop
Address: Oudebrugsteeg 26, Amsterdam A visit to De Kroon Coffeeshop is an integral part of any Amsterdam trip for those looking to enjoy the city’s unique culture.
De Kuil Coffeeshop
Address: Oudebrugsteeg 27, Amsterdam With its welcoming, relaxed atmosphere and knowledgeable budtenders ready to guide both novices and experienced patrons, De Kuil Coffeeshop is a great choice for all.
De Overkant Coffeeshop
Address: Nieuwe Herengracht 71, Amsterdam This small, well-designed coffeeshop is conveniently located on the corner of Muiderstraat and Herengracht.
De Tweede Kamer Coffeeshop
Address: Heisteeg 6, Amsterdam Despite its tiny size, De Tweede Kamer is a hit with locals and travelers alike, thanks to the consistently high quality of its legally sold soft drugs.
Dutch Flowers Coffeeshop
Address: Singel 387, Amsterdam Situated on the first corner of Singel from Koningsplein, Dutch Flowers is one of Amsterdam’s most famous coffeeshops, especially among international visitors.
Easy Times Coffeeshop
Address: Prinsengracht 476, Amsterdam Easy Times Coffeeshop’s menu boasts 16 types of weed, offering a balanced selection of sativa and indica strains.
El Guapo Coffeeshop
Address: Nieuwe Nieuwstraat 32, Amsterdam Just a 5-minute walk from Central Station, El Guapo Coffeeshop provides a cozy, relaxed environment on a typical Amsterdam side street.
Excalibur Coffeeshop
Address: Oudezijds Achterburgwal 48, Amsterdam A stop at Excalibur Coffeeshop is essential for anyone looking to fully enjoy Amsterdam’s cultural scene during their visit.
Feels Good Coffeeshop
Address: Oudezijds Voorburgwal 36, Amsterdam Feels Good Coffeeshop is a must-visit for those seeking a unique cultural experience while exploring Amsterdam.
Flower Power Coffeeshop
Address: Rozengracht 139, Amsterdam Flower Power Coffeeshop is an essential stop for anyone looking to dive into Amsterdam’s cultural landscape during their stay.
Freeland Coffeeshop
Address: Lange Niezel 27, Amsterdam A great spot to unwind and enjoy a game of pool, Freeland Coffeeshop is known for its highly-rated Red Lebanon strain.
Freeworld Coffeeshop
Address: Nieuwendijk 30, Amsterdam Freeworld Coffeeshop is a crucial stop for anyone seeking to fully experience Amsterdam’s cultural offerings during their visit.
Funky Munkey Coffeeshop
Address: Marnixstraat 333, Amsterdam With quality weed and hash at an average price of €8 per gram, Funky Munkey Coffeeshop also features a pool table and chess games for patrons to enjoy.
Get Down To It Coffeeshop
Address: Korte Leidsedwarsstraat 77-79, Amsterdam Considered one of the best coffeeshops in the city, Get Down To It offers a cool atmosphere, friendly service, and an impressive array of weed and hash options.
Goa Coffeeshop
Address: Kloveniersburgwal 42, Amsterdam With its chill vibes, friendly and helpful staff, and relaxing music, Goa Coffeeshop is an excellent place to unwind.
Greenhouse Effect Coffeeshop
Address: Warmoesstraat 53, Amsterdam Established in the summer of 1992, The Greenhouse Effect was created to provide discerning smokers with an alternative experience.
Greenhouse Lounge Coffeeshop
Address: Haarlemmerstraat 64, Amsterdam One of the best in Amsterdam, Greenhouse Lounge Coffeeshop serves a delicious breakfast, with their scrambled eggs, toast, and bacon being a favorite among patrons.
Greenhouse Namaste Coffeeshop
Address: Waterlooplein 345, Amsterdam
A cozy coffeeshop offering a selection of high-quality cannabis, Greenhouse Namaste is the smallest of the Greenhouse coffeeshops, featuring a delightful and surprising decor with mosaics and an Oriental and Buddhist-inspired atmosphere.
Green House Coffeeshop (Centrum)
Address: Oudezijds Voorburgwal 191, Amsterdam Having won over thirty Cannabis Cup awards, Green House boasts an excellent reputation for both its products and the welcoming atmosphere across its four Amsterdam locations.
Grey Area Coffeeshop
Address: Oude Leliestraat 2, Amsterdam
Grey Area Coffeeshop is world-renowned as the original home of several famous strains, including Double Bubble Gum, Stonehedge, Wobbler, 4077, Yellow Cab, and the Grey Mist Crystal.
Happy Feelings Coffeeshop
Address: Kerkstraat 51, Amsterdam Happy Feelings Coffeeshop offers a trendy environment where you can relax and unwind during your time in Amsterdam.
Het Ballonnetje Coffeeshop
Address: Roetersstraat 12, Amsterdam For those seeking an authentic Dutch coffeeshop experience, The Balloon (Het Ballonnetje) is the perfect choice.
Het Gelderse Coffeeshop
Address: Geldersekade 54, Amsterdam A visit to Het Gelderse Coffeeshop is a must for anyone looking to enjoy Amsterdam’s unique culture during their stay.
Het Oerwoud Coffeeshop
Address: Warmoesstraat 70, Amsterdam Het Oerwoud Coffeeshop is an essential stop for those seeking a memorable cultural experience while exploring Amsterdam.
High Time Coffeeshop
Address: Wijde Kerksteeg 3, Amsterdam High Time Coffeeshop is a crucial part of any Amsterdam itinerary for those looking to fully enjoy the city’s cultural scene.
Highway Coffeeshop
Address: Lange Niezel 25, Amsterdam With its welcoming atmosphere, friendly staff, excellent weed, and reasonable prices, Highway Coffeeshop offers a more spacious setting compared to other coffeeshops in the area.
Hill Street Blues Coffeeshop
Address: Warmoesstraat 52a, Amsterdam Hill Street Blues Coffeeshop is an essential stop for anyone seeking to dive into Amsterdam’s cultural landscape during their visit.
Hill Street at the Market Coffeeshop
Address: Nieuwmarkt 14, Amsterdam Described by some as a more grown-up version of the original Hill Street Blues, this new coffeeshop near Nieuwmarkt features a fantastic chill-out lounge area.
Hunter’s Bar Coffeeshop
Address: Warmoesstraat 24, Amsterdam Established in 1985 on Amsterdam’s historic Warmoesstraat, Hunter’s Bar Coffeeshop has been providing a space for people to enjoy themselves and have a good time for over three decades.
Hunter’s Coffeeshop
Address: Warmoesstraat 37, Amsterdam Previously known as the Coin, Hunter’s #37 is a cozy little shop with a friendly vibe and international atmosphere.
Johnny’s Coffeeshop
Address: Elandsgracht 3, Amsterdam
Situated in the historic heart of the Jordaan district, Johnny’s Coffeeshop is a beloved Amsterdam institution.
Kadinsky Cum Laude Coffeeshop
Address: Langebrugsteeg 7a, Amsterdam This small shop, located in a cozy alley with lots of foot traffic, is known for its special grass called Cum Laude number 1.
Kadinsky (Front Page) Coffeeshop
Address: Zoutsteeg 14, Amsterdam The Front Page is a very small shop in a cozy alley with lots of people passing by. Upstairs, there’s a display window for smokers’ accessories, making it a typical tourist coffeeshop where people from all over the world gather.
Kadinsky Coffeeshop
Address: Rosmarijnsteeg 9, Amsterdam Not only do Kadinsky Coffeeshop’s top products surpass those of most other coffeeshops, but they also serve an excellent cup of coffee.
‘t Keteltje Coffeeshop
Address: Marnixstraat 74, Amsterdam
‘t Keteltje is an authentic Amsterdam “brown bar” style coffeeshop, perfect for a walk through the Jordaan, one of the city’s best neighborhoods.
La Tertulia Coffeeshop
Address: Prinsengracht 312, Amsterdam La Tertulia is one of Amsterdam’s most laid-back coffeeshops, with a minimalistic yet comfortable upper level that, while not as elaborately decorated as some other coffeeshop “palaces,” still provides a pleasant atmosphere.
Little Coffeeshop
Address: Vijzelgracht 47, Amsterdam With its great decor, atmosphere, friendly staff, amazing weed and hash at reasonable prices, and affordable food and drinks, Little Coffeeshop has it all.
Magic Coffeeshop
Address: Herengracht 287, Amsterdam This charming North African-style coffeeshop features computers with internet access, a pool table, other games, and large, comfortable seating areas.
Mediterrane Coffeeshop
Address: Spuistraat 80, Amsterdam
Mediterrane Coffeeshop is a must-visit for anyone seeking a unique cultural experience while exploring Amsterdam.
Mellow Yellow Coffeeshop
Address: Vijzelgracht 33, Amsterdam
Likely the very first coffeeshop in Amsterdam, Mellow Yellow offers a large selection of quality buds on its weed menu.
Mister Adam Coffeeshop
Address: Halvemaansteeg 1, Amsterdam Mister Adam Coffeeshop is an essential stop for those looking to enjoy Amsterdam’s cultural landscape during their visit.
Monaco Coffeeshop
Address: Spuistraat 80, Amsterdam Monaco Coffeeshop is a crucial part of any Amsterdam itinerary for those seeking to fully experience the city’s unique culture.
New Times Coffeeshop
Address: Spuistraat 260, Amsterdam After a long day of sightseeing and exploring Amsterdam, New Times Coffeeshop is the perfect place to relax and enjoy the city’s vibe.
Old Amsterdam Coffeeshop
Address: Amstelstraat 35, Amsterdam With its friendly atmosphere, fantastic weed for sale, and location in a nice, relaxed part of town, Old Amsterdam Coffeeshop is a great choice.
Paradise Coffeeshop
Address: Damstraat 8-10, Amsterdam Paradise Coffeeshop is a must-visit
A Unique and Eye-Opening Experience
Visiting Amsterdam’s coffeeshops is not just about consuming cannabis; it’s an opportunity to engage with a different perspective on drug policy and to experience a side of the city that has shaped its identity for decades. Whether you’re a seasoned cannabis user or simply curious about this aspect of Amsterdam’s culture, a visit to a coffeeshop is sure to be a memorable part of your trip.
As you explore the city’s coffeeshops, take the time to appreciate the history and the progressive thinking that has made Amsterdam a global leader in cannabis tolerance. Engage with the locals, try new strains, and allow yourself to be open to the unique experiences that these establishments have to offer.
To sum it up, Amsterdam’s coffeeshops are a testament to the city’s open-minded and forward-thinking approach to cannabis. By embracing this aspect of its culture, Amsterdam has created a space where people from all backgrounds can come together and enjoy a shared experience. So, when you find yourself in the city of canals and cyclists, be sure to add a visit to a coffeeshop to your itinerary – you won’t regret it.
